Chapter 2 - The Smiling Ghost
For three months, Khloe lived a masterclass in deception.
She slept in the same bed as a man she knew was plotting to destroy her.
She smiled when Richard kissed her cheek in the mornings.
She poured his coffee.
She listened to his complaints about delayed shipments from Boston.
She knew Boston meant Vanessa.
She didn't flinch.
Instead, every Tuesday, when the cleaning staff opened the house, Khloe worked.
She photographed every serial number on every expensive watch Richard owned.
She documented the contents of the basement safe.
She found the hidden ledgers in his home office.
She sent everything to a secure server Harrison had set up.
Richard suspected nothing.
His arrogance was his absolute blind spot.
He looked at Khloe and only saw a pregnant woman nesting.
He didn't see the silent predator she was becoming.
One evening, Richard came home late.
The sharp, floral scent of Vanessa’s perfume clung to his collar.
“Rough day at the office?” Khloe asked smoothly.
She handed him a glass of scotch.
“Exhausting,” Richard sighed, loosening his tie.
“The supply chain issues are a nightmare. I’ll need to travel again this weekend.”
“Miami?” Khloe asked, her voice light and innocent.
“Yes. A potential investor.”
Richard smiled his million-dollar smile.
The one that belonged on magazine covers.
“I’ll make it up to you, Khloe. I promise.”
“I know you will, Richard.”
She took a sip of her sparkling water.
“I know exactly what you’re going to do.”
Richard missed the double meaning entirely.
He drained his glass and headed up the stairs to shower.
Khloe pulled out her burner phone.
She sent a single text to Harrison.
He’s going to Miami. The offshore transfer is probably happening this weekend.
A minute later, her screen lit up.
Let him go. The trap snaps shut on Monday.
Khloe placed her hand on her swollen belly.
She was seven months pregnant now.
The baby was strong.
She walked into the nursery she had painted herself.
It was perfect.
Peaceful.
She wasn't going to let anyone take this away from her daughter.
On Monday morning, Richard Harrington walked into his downtown headquarters.
He felt invincible.
The offshore accounts were finalized.
The divorce papers were sitting in his briefcase.
He was going to serve Khloe at dinner.
He walked past his receptionist with a brisk nod.
May you like
He pushed open the double doors to his executive suite.
Harrison Cole was sitting behind Richard’s desk.
